Hello, my name is Patricia, and I am reaching out during an incredibly difficult time. I am a single mother with sole custody of my two wonderful children. My kids are my world, and as any parent knows, I would do anything for them.

For years, I made a conscious choice to prioritize their well-being. With a background as a Registered Nurse, I chose to be a stay-at-home-mom, and then to work as a Teaching Assistant at their school. This allowed me to have the same schedule as my children, to be involved in their education, and to provide the consistent, specialized care they need after school. Finding affordable, understanding care for my children, one of whom is autistic and both of whom have ADHD, has always been a profound challenge, and this was the best way I could ensure they were supported.

Recently, our family structure changed suddenly and significantly. I am navigating a divorce and, for our safety and well-being, we have had to make a clean break. I am working diligently with a lawyer to establish a stable future for my children.

The Immediate Crisis:

We were relying on a court-ordered financial support arrangement to make ends meet. That support has not materialized. Overnight, I found myself trying to cover all our expenses—rent, utilities, food, and my children’s essential therapies—solely on my Teaching Assistant salary. It is not enough. I have exhausted every resource available to me and am now facing the very real possibility of not being able to cover our most basic needs, starting with rent.

Why I Need Your Help:

My lawyer is actively working to resolve the legal financial issues, but that process takes time. In the meantime, the gap between my income and our necessities is a chasm I cannot cross alone.

Every dollar raised will go directly to keeping a roof over our heads, keeping the lights on, putting food on the table, and ensuring my children's therapies and routines—which are vital to their progress and stability—can continue without disruption. This fund is a bridge to survival while the legal system runs its course and while I work on securing additional income.

From the Bottom of My Heart:

Asking for help does not come easily to me. I have always been the caregiver. To be in this position is humbling. If you are able to contribute, even the smallest amount, please know you are giving my children and me the gift of stability and safety during our most vulnerable time. If you cannot donate, sharing this campaign with your network would mean the world to us.

With profound gratitude,

Patricia Carvalho